Hildesheimer Rose Pattern Silver-Plated Tea Spoon by Christoph Widmann
Flatware - Tea Spoon or Dessert Spoon · Christoph Widmann Pforzheim, Germany. Founded in 1919, Widmann is world-renowned for high-quality decorative silver and specialized in the 'Hildesheimer Rose' design which became their signature export.
Pattern: Hildesheimer Rose, introduced specifically as a revival of German Romanticism styles; it is one of the most famous and widely reproduced German silver patterns of the 20th century.
Type
Flatware - Tea Spoon or Dessert Spoon
Maker
Christoph Widmann Pforzheim, Germany. Founded in 1919, Widmann is world-renowned for high-quality decorative silver and specialized in the 'Hildesheimer Rose' design which became their signature export.
Material
Silver-plated (likely Nickel Silver base). The visible '90' stamp indicates the German silver-plating standard where 90 grams of silver are used to plate 24 pieces of flatware.
Dimensions
Estimated length 11-13 cm (approx. 4.5-5 inches); Weight approximately 15-20 grams. This is standard for a European tea or cake spoon.
Description
This charming spoon features the iconic Hildesheimer Rose, a pattern inspired by the legendary 1,000-year-old rosebush at the Hildesheim Cathedral. The handle is intricately sculpted to resemble a woody vine, leading to a blossoming rose at the finial. The antiqued finish provides deep contrast, making the floral motifs 'pop' against the silver background.
Key Features
Authentic '90' thickness mark, characteristic 'thorny' stem texture handle, and the distinctive wide-pedal wild rose finial characteristic of the Widmann workshop.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated (likely Nickel Silver base). The visible '90' stamp indicates the German silver-plating standard where 90 grams of silver are used to plate 24 pieces of flatware.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight recessed areas. Featuring a stylized wild rose blossom at the terminal, accompanied by leaves and a stem-textured handle in the German Romantic/Art Nouveau style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The stamp '90' is clearly visible on the handle, signifying the silver plate thickness. Typically accompanied by a 'Widmann' or 'CW' maker's mark (often located higher or on the neck).
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured with hand-finished oxidation. The deep relief of the rose suggests high-pressure mechanical stamping typical of Pforzheim manufacturing.
Functional Features
Tapered handle for delicate grip, teardrop-shaped bowl (partially visible), and an ornamental terminal intended for formal afternoon tea service.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal with a bark-like texture mimicking a rose stem; the grip is ergonomically contoured but prioritizes aesthetic floral realism.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship; the precision of the die-striking ensures that even in silver plate, the veins of the leaves and the folds of the petals remain distinct.
Authentication Indicators
The '90' stamp is the primary indicator of German silver-plate origin. The specific casting of the rose petals matches the Widmann master molds used in the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
Pforzheim, Germany—the historic 'Goldstadt' or City of Gold, known for precision jewelry and silver workshops.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (post-WWII) German Romanticism revival. While based on earlier 18th-century folklore designs, this specific form is mid-century modern production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 based on the crispness of the '90' stamp and the specific texture of the handle oxidation.
Cultural Significance
A staple of German 'Kaffee und Kuchen' (coffee and cake) culture; these spoons were popular souvenirs for American soldiers stationed in Germany following WWII.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible tarnish and heavy oxidation in the crevices (intended by design but deepened by age). Minor surface scratches consistent with use. No visible plate loss or 'bleeding' of base metal.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD per individual spoon. Value is higher for sterling (.800 or .835) versions, whereas '90' plate is common for daily use.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only with mild soap. Use a gentle silver cloth to polish the highlights but avoid liquid dips, which will strip away the intentional dark oxidation in the rose petals.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Albin Müller’s Art Nouveau roses or Hanau silver pieces. Competitors like Antiko also produced rose patterns, but Widmann's are generally considered higher quality.
Interesting Facts
The pattern is based on a real rose bush in Hildesheim, Germany, which survived the Allied bombings in 1945, leading the rose to become a symbol of resilience and prosperity.